Lightning strikes historic Lemp Mansion in St. Louis

ST. LOUIS - Leave it to Mother Nature to add another chapter to the storied history of the Lemp Mansion, as the historic restaurant and inn was struck by lightning on over the weekend.

According to a release from Otter Graphics Studios, the lightning strike happened at around 3:28 p.m. Sunday, knocking bricks off the chimney and scattering them across the nearby parking area. A power surge from the strike damaged the venue's phone system, internet service, and some electronic devices and lights.

According to FOX 2 meteorologist John Fuller, stray thunderstorms with torrential rain struck this part of the St. Louis City on Sunday afternoon, and produced 1½ to two inches of rain in less than an hour.

“People were having Sunday chicken dinner, and it was an unexpected rainstorm. It rained very heavily. And then toward the end of that, the whole house suddenly shook with a vibration,” Tim Trunnell, Lemp Mansion historian, said. 

Employees who were on the second floor at the time of the strike described it as sounding like "Thor's hammer striking the building," while diners said that it sounded like glass shattering and felt the vibration of the windows. 

No injuries were reported among staff and guests, and the mansion remains open, with phone services expected to be restored within a day or two.

Despite the initial scare it may have caused to those inside, they handled the situation well, as employees continued to serve meals and keep the night going. 

“When they built this house, a lot of the interior walls are brick also, so it’s not a frame construction,” Matt Bell, general manager of the property, said. “It’s a lot more like a castle. So, it’s going to be standing for a while.”

Built in the 1860s, the historic venue on Demenil Place hosts bridal events, dining, and overnight stays.